Psalms 84:10-12

Psalms 84:10-12

[10] For a day  in thy courts  is better  than a thousand.  I had rather  be a doorkeeper  in the house  of my God,  than to dwell  in the tents  of wickedness.  [11] For the LORD  God  is a sun  and shield:  the LORD  will give  grace  and glory:  no good  thing will he withhold  from them that walk  uprightly.  [12] O LORD  of hosts,  blessed  is the man  that trusteth  in thee.

What does Psalms 84:10-12 Mean?

Contextual Meaning

He valued standing and serving in the temple because there he could experience intimacy with God. He could occupy himself with Yahweh and His worship intensively. That is all people usually did in the temple. Consequently, wickedness was less prevalent there than anywhere else. God"s beneficent influence is sun-like, providing light and warmth on those below. He also protects those close to Him. He gives unmerited favor and divine enablement (grace) as well as honor (glory). He sends only good things to the lives of those who walk harmoniously with His will. Therefore the person who trusts Him experiences His blessing.
"The essence of godliness is in submissiveness to the Great King, who will grant his blessings to those who find their refuge in him ..." [1]
This psalm expresses the joy that comes through intimacy with God. In Israel, this took place in proximity to Yahweh"s localized presence in the temple. Today, it takes place as the believer trusts and obeys God as He has revealed His will in Scripture. There are degrees of intimacy. This psalm visualizes getting closer to God by approaching the temple. Some believers choose to live close to God, and others prefer to live further away from Him. Of course, unbelievers have no personal relationship with Him.